As most here on this FLF thread location are indeed veterans at B/P. I'm sure if you stick around here you will indeed learn a few ("tips") that do apply to your situation cdmckane. A couple things to remember. Be patient & observant. After all it is a skill.

My tip; The very first thing I would do since this is a pre-owned rifle you were given. Make sure it isn't already loaded or has a projectile stuck someplace in its barrel length. If the barrel is clear. Then mark your Ram- rod for total distance to its breech bottom. Done easily and neatly in a simple but effective way using an indelible fine-tipped pen as arcticap suggested.

Quote:

bore butter when loading balls with patches but doesn't say weather or not I need to with sabots.

arcticap: He answered that one for you and offered more Links besides.

Post Script: Welcome to the form Sir.

Oops I guess I'm a bit late with this one_

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"Do not follow where the path leads, rather go where there is no path and leave a trail."